Sharks, those magnificent creatures of the deep, are often perceived as terrifying predators. Yet these misunderstood animals are crucial to the ecological balance of our oceans. They are part of a group known as “migratory sharks,” species that travel long distances for various reasons, including feeding and reproduction. Unfortunately, migratory shark species are increasingly faced with threats from human activities, primarily from international trade and illegal wildlife trafficking.
These activities have caused a significant impact on shark populations worldwide, propelling many species towards the brink of extinction. Recognizing the critical state of these marine animals, the UK has emerged as a leading figure in the international efforts to conserve migratory shark species. This article will delve into the vital role the UK plays in these conservation efforts.
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UK’s Commitment to the Convention on Migratory Species
The UK, as a key player in international environmental bodies, has shown a strong commitment towards the conservation of migratory shark species. One of the most significant ways the UK has demonstrated this commitment is through its active involvement in the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS).
The CMS, also known as the Bonn Convention, is a global accord focused on the protection of migratory animals across their range. The convention recognizes that international cooperation is essential for the conservation of migratory species. They are continually moving across national boundaries, rendering individual countries’ efforts insufficient.
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The UK, as a party to this convention, has been instrumental in advocating for the inclusion of several shark species within the CMS Appendices. These include the spiny dogfish, porbeagle, and several species of rays, including the manta and devil rays. The listing of these species in the CMS Appendices obligates party countries to protect these species, demonstrating the UK’s leadership and influence in international wildlife conservation.
Leading the Charge for Global Shark Conservation
Building on its commitment to the CMS, the UK has been at the forefront of global efforts to conserve shark species. The UK government recognises the importance of biodiversity and has prioritised the protection of endangered marine life, including migratory sharks and rays.
The UK has been proactive in supporting initiatives and regulations that aim to regulate international trade of shark products. They have been instrumental in proposals to add several shark species to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) appendices. Such listings would require countries to demonstrate that their trade in these animals is sustainable and does not threaten the species’ survival.
Additionally, the UK’s Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has implemented domestic measures to protect sharks. For instance, DEFRA has imposed stricter controls on the import and export of shark fins, a major contributing factor to the global decline of shark populations.
Addressing the Threat of Wildlife Trafficking
Wildlife trafficking poses a significant threat to migratory shark species, and the UK has taken substantial steps to address this issue. Recognizing the urgency of the problem, the UK hosted the London Conference on the Illegal Wildlife Trade in 2018, reaffirming its global leadership role in tackling wildlife crime.
With sharks being one of the most trafficked animals in the world, the UK has pushed for stronger international cooperation and enforcement measures to curb this illegal trade. This includes supporting initiatives that enhance law enforcement capabilities and foster cross-border collaboration. The UK has also prioritised engaging with countries that are major transit points for shark trafficking, advocating for improved monitoring and regulation of trade routes.
Advancing Scientific Research and Public Awareness
Science and public awareness are vital elements of conservation work. The UK has made significant contributions in both areas to protect migratory shark species.
The UK is home to several leading marine research institutions conducting critical research on shark biology and ecology. This research informs conservation strategies and contributes to the global understanding of shark populations and their threats.
Equally important is the UK’s work in raising public awareness about the plight of sharks. Various UK-based conservation organizations undertake numerous public engagement activities, aiming to change public perception and encourage actions that contribute to shark conservation.
Championing the Cause at International Meetings
Last but not least, the UK plays a critical role in international conservation meetings where decisions about wildlife management and protection are made. The UK frequently uses these platforms to champion the cause of migratory shark species, urging other nations to adopt stricter measures to protect these endangered creatures.
At these meetings, the UK puts forward proposals, shares research, and advocates for the protection of shark species. Their work at these international forums highlights the UK’s unwavering commitment to the conservation of migratory shark species on a global scale.
In conclusion, the UK’s role in the international effort to protect migratory shark species is multi-faceted and significant. Through its commitment to international conventions, domestic measures, efforts against wildlife trafficking, and promotion of scientific research and public awareness, the UK continues to champion the cause of these endangered marine creatures. Despite the ongoing challenges, the UK’s efforts provide a beacon of hope for the future of migratory sharks.
UK’s Endeavours against Shark Finning
Shark finning, a practice where fins are removed from sharks while they’re still alive, often for use in shark fin soup, is a significant threat to migratory sharks. The UK has been actively working to combat this dreadful practice both domestically and internationally.
The UK has strictly forbidden shark finning in its waters and on British boats, regardless of their location. This ban was implemented by the EU and is still upheld by the UK post-Brexit. The UK further discourages this practise by making the import of detached shark fins more difficult.
On the international arena, the UK has been a strong proponent of memorandums of understanding (MoUs), advocating for the increased protection of sharks and rays. These MoUs, under the auspices of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), aim to protect and conserve shark species and migratory shark ray populations that are at risk due to finning and other practices.
Moreover, the UK works closely with CMS parties, urging them to create and enforce laws against shark finning. The UK also collaborates with other countries such as Costa Rica and Central Asia, which are significant transit points for shark fin trafficking, to improve regulation and monitoring of this illegal trade.
UK Collaboration with the European Union
Despite Brexit, the European Union (EU) and the UK continue to work together to protect migratory sharks. This collaboration is vital considering the wide range of migratory shark species in European waters.
The UK has been influential in shaping many of the EU’s policies on marine conservation, including those related to the protection of migratory sharks. The EU’s comprehensive ban on shark finning, for instance, was a measure that the UK strongly advocated for and continues to enforce.
An example of this ongoing collaboration is the joint call by the EU and the UK for measures to protect the shortfin mako shark, one of the most endangered shark species in the Atlantic. Both have proposed a ban on retention by vessels fishing in the North Atlantic, to help the severely depleted population recover.
Furthermore, the UK has been an active participant in EU-led initiatives aimed at enhancing the conservation status of sharks and rays, such as the EU’s ‘Plan of Action for the Conservation of Sharks’.
In Conclusion
The UK’s central role in international efforts to protect migratory shark species is undeniable. With their commitment to international treaties, domestic measures, and significant efforts against shark finning and wildlife trafficking, the UK stands as a global leader in shark conservation.
The collaboration with the EU, even after Brexit, demonstrates the UK’s unwavering dedication to saving these endangered marine creatures. Their endeavours to champion shark conservation are not confined to their waters but extend far and wide, into every corner of the globe where these magnificent creatures roam.
The threats faced by migratory sharks are grave and pressing, but with the continued efforts of the UK and similar-minded nations, there is hope. As we move forward, the UK’s approach to shark conservation, marked by international cooperation, stringent policies, and public awareness, provides a model for other nations to emulate.
With the survival of our migratory sharks hanging in the balance, the UK’s tireless efforts offer a beacon of hope for these fascinating creatures, vital to the health and biodiversity of our oceans.